Flangan & Gerard, in partnership with Vukile Property Fund, have acquired BT Ngebs City in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. The process for the R800 million transaction began in 2022 and now finalised, each owner holds an equal share in the regional shopping centre.

The transfer also signals the green light to commence with major refurbishment plans to bring the mall in line with the standards of its new owners while improving its overall retail experience.

The redevelopment of the regional mall will bring significant improvement in its dynamics, flows and synergy with the neighbouring Mayfair Hotel and Casino. The introduction of escalators connecting the basement carpark directly to the retail level will streamline flow and interaction, create ease of access and shopping convenience. Mall lobbies will be introduced to the basement parking level, connecting the new escalators to key tenants on the retail level above. Tenant signage will be vastly improved giving customers a sense of direction and comfort with the mall layout. Major upgrades are planned for the main mall entrance, bringing theatrical elements and a vibrant atmosphere to strengthen the connection with the adjacent Casino and Mayfair Hotel. The combination of new owner-operated restaurants, thoughtful landscaping, and an enhanced overall vibe will contribute to the revitalization of this precinct, offering a more engaging and appealing experience for visitors from the region.

The mall’s retail mix will also be energised, bringing new retailers to the centre. Additional retailers focusing on first order goods will be introduced in conjunction with an additional pharmacy. This will bolster the current tenant mix which includes the likes of Pick n Pay, Checkers, Woolworths and Clicks. In addition, its popular selection of fashion brands, including Truworths, Foschini, Edgars, Mr Price, Ackermans, Refinery, Archive, Timberland, Fabiani, G-Star Raw, Spitz, Soviet and Bogart Man will be expanded with an even wider array of offerings. Both Queenspark and Pick n Pay Clothing have recently joined BT Ngebs City.

“BT Ngebs City has all the ingredients to be an exceptional retail asset in our portfolio. Its great location, access and visibility make it a popular shopping destination. We are excited to work with Vukile to unlock the mall’s potential and performance and offer shoppers a wider choice of attractive retail,” comments Paul Gerard, MD at Flanagan & Gerard.

“BT Ngebs City serves a crucial customer base within the South African retail sector and expands our existing investment in high-performing township and rural malls. It is an asset with excellent potential. Vukile’s investment and active asset management, together with that of Flanagan & Gerard, will continue the positive social and economic influence of BT Ngebs City for customers and communities in Mthatha and the region,” remarks Itumeleng Mothibeli, MD SA at Vukile.